Maldives Enforces Bold Tobacco Ban for Youth Born After 2006

The Maldives has officially begun enforcing its generational ban on tobacco sales, marking a major milestone in the country’s public health and anti-smoking efforts. Starting today, the sale and use of tobacco products to individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, are strictly prohibited.

This groundbreaking move stems from amendments made to the Tobacco Control Act in May 2025, positioning the Maldives among the world’s first nations to adopt a long-term generational approach to ending tobacco use.

President Muizzu Commends the Milestone

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu hailed the implementation as a historic moment for the nation. In a post shared on X, he expressed his appreciation to everyone involved in bringing the initiative to life. The president also noted that the launch of the generational ban coincides with two other major developments — the issuance of gulper shark fishing licences and pay harmonisation across local councils, the judiciary, and civil service sectors.

“On this occasion, I express my gratitude to everyone who contributed to making these three things possible. I also congratulate all those who will benefit from the implementation of these three measures,” the president said.

From Age Restrictions to Generational Protection

The Maldives had already raised the legal age for tobacco purchases from 18 to 21 in 2024. However, the new generational ban takes regulation a step further — it permanently prohibits tobacco sales to anyone born after 2006, even once they reach adulthood.

Retailers are now required to verify customer ages carefully, with clear penalties for selling tobacco products to individuals within the restricted age group. The government hopes this will create a generation free from tobacco addiction.

Public Event Marks the Beginning of the Ban

To celebrate the implementation of the new policy, the Ministry of Health organised a unique 24-hour “Tobacco-Free Generation Run” at the Ekuveni Running Track in Malé. The event began at 4 PM on October 31 and continued until 4 PM on November 1 — the official day the law came into effect. Participants, including health officials and youth advocates, joined the run to raise awareness and show support for a healthier, smoke-free future.

Global Recognition for Tobacco Control Efforts

President Muizzu’s leadership in tobacco control has already earned international recognition. Earlier, he received the World No-Tobacco Day Special Recognition Award from the World Health Organization (WHO) for his government’s strong stance on tobacco regulation.

The WHO praised the Maldives for a series of bold public health initiatives, including:

• Expanding smoke-free public areas

• Enforcing a nationwide ban on e-cigarettes and e-liquids

• Raising the legal tobacco purchasing age

• Banning all forms of tobacco advertising

• Increasing taxes on tobacco products

• Offering free cessation programmes across health facilities

The generational ban is seen as a pivotal step in reshaping public health policy in the Maldives. By cutting off tobacco access for future generations, the government aims to reduce long-term health risks, lower healthcare costs, and build a healthier population for decades to come.